As an important member of the Sun Devil Family, I wanted to reach out following the recent announcement that Steve Patterson has accepted the athletics director position at the University of Texas. I want to assure you his departure will not impede the tremendous progress Sun Devil Athletics has made in recent years, nor will it deter my commitment to supporting our athletics department to the highest level. Sun Devil Athletics will continue to pursue their core principles of Championship Performance, Graduation and Integrity while honoring their many great traditions.

As we conduct a national search for our next athletics director, Senior Vice President Dr. James Rund will serve as interim athletics director. Dr. Rund is no stranger to Sun Devil Athletics. A Sun Devil himself, Jim is a member of the Sun Devil Club Board of Directors and in recent years has been an integral part of the team responsible for the recent surge in student attendance at athletics events.

I hope you all will join me in thanking Steve Patterson for his efforts in putting Sun Devil Athletics in a position for continued success. Our overall mission and focus remain unchanged and the athletics department is committed to seeing the great work Steve began, including the move to Phoenix Municipal Stadium and the renovation of Sun Devil Stadium, through to completion.